Generous $500k Grant Fuels Renovation, Fosters Community and Creativity
Coinciding with the 175th anniversary of its founding, Goddard House, a Brookline-based nonprofit senior living organization and creative aging innovator, is honored to announce a generous $500,000 grant from The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation to support construction of an addition of a creative aging hub to its campus. As part of Goddard House’s $16 million renovation, this inviting new space will offer engaging programs in art, music, theater, film, and lectures, fostering creativity and connection. More than just a venue, it embodies Goddard House’s mission to embrace the aging experience by operating a high-quality assisted living community and by creating innovative programs that promote purpose, engagement, and autonomy among its older adult residents and the greater community. The Brown family, who founded and manage The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation, have deep roots in Brookline and a long history of supporting community-based initiatives that enhance the quality of life for older adults.
The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation’s Commitment to the Arts and Elder Housing
The Foundation has supported cultural landmarks such as the Coolidge Corner Theatre, Berklee School of Music, and the Brookline Arts Center. Additionally, its investments in elder housing—through partnerships with organizations such as 2Life Communities, Sherrill House, and Rogerson Communities—demonstrate a dedication to improving quality of life for older adults.
The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation, established in 2011 by the late Harold Brown, a Boston real estate developer and philanthropist, has a long-standing commitment to supporting small community-based nonprofits that serve those in need. While the Foundation initially focused on scholarships and essential services, its philanthropic reach has expanded to include cultural institutions and elder housing initiatives.
“Our family’s connection to Brookline and its cultural institutions has shaped our giving priorities,” said Ronald Brown, president of the Foundation and brother of its founder, Harold Brown. Actively involved in the Foundation’s work since 2017, Ronald continues the family’s legacy of philanthropy and community support.
“Music has always been a big part of my life, and supporting initiatives like the creative aging hub at Goddard House is incredibly meaningful. Seeing tangible results from our contributions is very satisfying. The Goddard House community is amazing, with a very warm and comforting atmosphere.”
Creative Aging and Community Building
The development of the Goddard House creative aging hub aligns with the Foundation’s broader vision of enhancing quality of life through arts, culture, and community engagement.
“We are incredibly grateful for this meaningful gift and for The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation’s belief in our mission,” said Goddard House President & CEO, Candace Cramer. “With this support, we will create a space where our residents and older adults in the greater community can explore their creativity, engage in meaningful, learning experiences and build connections.”
As Goddard House continues its renovation project to enhance its person-centered approach to senior living, this partnership with The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation marks a significant step toward ensuring that older adults, both residents, and members of the broader community, have access to inspiring and enriching experiences.
About The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation
The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation funds a wide variety of charities, including those that engage in medical and scientific research and deliver medical services and those that provide educational, artistic/musical, and recreational activities for underserved youths. The Foundation also finances scholarships for qualified applicants, aid to those experiencing homelessness, capital renovations or new construction, and animal hospitals and shelters.